Alpha Brain Review: Dosage, Benefits, Side Effects & Where to Buy Online

Updated March 10, 2024 by | Reviewed by William Gallagher, MNeuroSci
(Estimated reading time: 18 minutes)

In this Onnit Alpha Brain review, I'll be looking at what Alpha Brain is, how it works and what it's used for. I'll go over the benefits, the perfect dosage, and what side effects you may run into. Lastly, I'll share my own experience with it and where you can buy Alpha Brain online.

Do you want to enhance your brain function?

Alpha Brain is a popular nootropic that can help you do just that.

Itā€™s the most powerful and effective way to produce alpha waves in your brain to ultimately enhance your focus, memory, and overall cognitive abilities.

Alpha Brain is made up of a combination of vitamins, minerals, herbs that are designed to work synergistically in order to produce optimal results for the user when it comes to enhancing their mental acuity.

If you want better results from your workouts or more motivation for studying or work then this is definitely something worth trying out!

So without further ado, let's just get straight into it, shall we?

What is Onnit Alpha Brain?

ProductAlpha BRAINĀ®
Product TypeNootropic
ManufacturerOnnit Labs, Inc
EffectsSupports overall brain function and improves cognitive performance
Side EffectsNo known side effects
Dosage2 capsules daily
Content30 capsules
Price$34.95 USD
Money-Back GuaranteeKEEP ITā„¢ Money Back Guarantee (redeemable up to 3 months - 90 days)

Onnit Labs' Alpha Brain is a well-known nootropic brand that has risen to prominence just a few years after its inception in 2011, thanks to comedian Joe Rogan, who owns the brand.

Alpha Brain is made up of a combination of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts.

They are specifically designed to work synergistically in order to produce the best results possible.

This product is entirely natural as well so you don't have to worry about any sort of side effects either!

Alpha Brain works by increasing your levels of acetylcholine which enhances both memory and learning abilities.

This supplement also works to improve your overall mental clarity and focus which is what makes it so great for people that are trying to study or do work!

It's no surprise that Onnit Alpha Brain is one of the most popular smart drugs on earth.

With its affordability and accessibility, this nootropic has been able to capture a large following in both enthusiasts with serious biohacking needs or just looking for an edge at work!

How Does Alpha Brain Work?

As briefly mentioned before, the way Alpha Brain works is by increasing your levels of acetylcholine.

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that's responsible for communication between nerve cells.

It's also in charge of things like memory, learning, and muscle contraction.

So by increasing your levels of it, you're essentially giving your cognitive abilities a boost!

Alpha Brain also helps you get 'into the zone' by supporting alpha brain waves.

The brain produces alpha waves when we are in a relaxed or calm state. Many people experience these waves during stress-relieving activities like meditation and yoga.

Alpha brain waves are also associated with improved mental clarity, focus, and creativity.

So by supplementing with Alpha Brain, you're essentially giving yourself a way to hack into that state of mind whenever you need it!

How Long Does It Take For Alpha Brain to Work?

The effects of Alpha Brain can vary depending on the individual.

According to most users, and from my own experience, the effects of Alpha Brain are usually seen within 1-2 hours and can last up to 3 hours.

That being said, it's worth pointing out that Alpha Brain may not produce an obvious ā€˜effectā€™ for some people, even after a week of taking it daily.

But this doesn't mean that it's any less effective.

The lack of noticeable effects straight away can be caused by the person taking too low doses or using it incorrectly.

When it comes to nootropics, and Alpha Brain, in particular, some people are just more sensitive to the effects than others.

If you find that you're not seeing any effects after a few weeks, I recommend gradually increasing your dosage until you find the sweet spot for you.

...But more on dosage later!

What Is Alpha Brain Used For?

Alpha Brain is most commonly used as a cognitive enhancer.

It's often taken by students during exam time or by business professionals that need to be 'on their game' for important presentations.

But it can also be used simply as a way to improve your focus and concentration levels on a daily basis.

I've personally found that Alpha Brain is great for when I need to get work done but find it hard to focus.

You know, those days where you just can't seem to get going no matter how hard you try!

In these situations, Alpha Brain has always been able to give me the mental edge I need to power through and get things done, without having to slam down coffee like it's going out of style.

It's also been shown to be effective in improving memory recall, so if you're looking for a way to help improve your memory, then Alpha Brain could be an excellent option for you!

A quick overview of what Alpha Brain is used for:

  • To improve cognitive function
  • To enhance memory recall
  • To increase focus and concentration
  • To help you 'get into the zone'
  • As a study aid
  • For improved work performance

Now that we know a little more about what Alpha Brain is and how it works, let's take a look at the dosage, benefits, and side effects in a little more detail.

Alpha Brain Ingredients

Alpha Brain consists of 3 proprietary blends which are:

  • The Flow Blend: This blend promotes Alpha wave synthesis and consists of L-theanine, L-Tyrosine, and Phosphatidylserine.
  • The Focus Blend: This blend stimulates the production of Acetylcholine and consists of Bacopa Monnieri, Huperzia Serrata, and Alpha GPC.
  • The Fuel Blend: This blend promotes neurotransmitter balance and consists of L-Leucine, Pterostilbene, and Vincopetine.

As you can see, the combination of ingredients in Alpha Brain is extremely effective at producing results.

With that said, let's take a closer look at each ingredient individually.

IngredientAmount
Vitamin B6
10 mg
L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine, Oat (Straw) Extract, Phosphatidylserine
650 mg
Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) (bark) Extract
350 mg
Alpha-GPC, Bacopa Monnieri, Huperzia Serrata
240 mg
L-Leucine, Pterostilbene
60 mg

L-theanine

L-theanine is derived from green tea and works to improve your mood which makes it great for those that are stressed out.

It is also known to improve your creativity and focus which is why it's included in this supplement.

L-theanine works by increasing levels of GABA and dopamine in your brain which makes you feel more relaxed.

It also has the added benefit of increasing alpha waves in your brain which is what works to improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function!

Bacopa Monnieri

This herbal extract originates from India and is known for its powerful antioxidant properties.

It's also been shown to improve memory and cognition which is why it was included in Alpha Brain.

Bacopa Monnieri works by increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and noradrenaline in your brain.

These neurotransmitters are known for having a positive effect on both learning and mood thus making Bacopa an effective ingredient.

Huperzia Serrata

This herbal extract is derived from a moss found in India and has been used for hundreds of years to treat a variety of ailments including asthma, rheumatism, headaches, and even snake bites!

It's also an effective nootropic that can enhance cognitive function which is why it was included in Alpha Brain.

Huperzia works by increasing acetylcholine levels which enhances memory and learning capabilities while also stimulating the production of new neurons in your brain!

Alpha GPC

This ingredient is derived from soy lecithin and acts as a precursor to Acetylcholine, one of our main neurotransmitters.

It is also known to improve memory and learning capabilities which makes it an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

It is a choline donor which means it works by converting to acetylcholine in your brain.

This is what enhances memory, learning capabilities, and overall cognitive function!

L-Leucine

This ingredient is an essential amino acid that assists with the production of other neurotransmitters in our brains including dopamine, noradrenaline, and GABA.

It also works to reduce fatigue and boost overall energy levels which is why it's included in Alpha Brain.

L-Leucine works by increasing neurotransmitter production which enhances memory, mood, focus, and even physical performance!

Oat Straw Extract

This ingredient is derived from organic oats and works to improve your mood and memory.

It also helps with the reduction of fatigue which makes it an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

Oat Straw Extract works by increasing serotonin levels in our brains which improves overall mood while also reducing anxiety, stress, and tension.

It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that promote overall brain health!

Vinpocetine

This ingredient is derived from the periwinkle plant and works to stimulate the production of Acetylcholine which improves memory, learning capabilities, and cognitive function.

It also helps with focus which makes it an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

Vinpocetine works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain which enhance memory, learning capabilities, and mood!

Phosphatidylserine

This ingredient is derived from soy and works to improve memory via neuroplasticity.

It also helps with focus which makes it an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

Phosphatidylserine works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and noradrenaline in the brain.

These chemicals are known for having a beneficial effect on mood, focus, and learning capabilities!

Catā€™s Claw Extract (AC-11)

This ingredient is derived from the bark of a Peruvian vine and works to improve physical performance.

It also helps with mood so it makes an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

Catā€™s Claw Extract works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and noradrenaline in your brain which enhances mood, focus, and even physical performance!

Pterostilbene

This ingredient is derived from blueberries and works to improve memory via neuroplasticity.

It also helps with mood so it makes an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

Pterostilbene works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and noradrenaline in your brain which enhances mood, focus, and even physical performance!

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is also known as pyridoxine and is used as a coenzyme to help with the formation of neurotransmitters in our brains which enhances mood, focus, and even physical performance.

It also helps with memory so it makes an effective nootropic in Alpha Brain!

What Are The Benefits of Alpha Brain?

Alpha Brain is most commonly used as a cognitive enhancer.

But it also has a whole host of other benefits that make it well worth taking, even if you're not looking to boost your brainpower!

One of these other benefits is increased alpha brain waves.

As I briefly touched on before, Alpha brain waves are produced when we are in a relaxed or calm state.

This can be helpful if you're looking to wind down after a long day or if you're struggling to fall asleep at night.

The increased alpha brain waves can also lead to improved mental clarity, focus, and creativity.

This can be extremely helpful if you're working on a project that requires a lot of creative thinking!

So to give an overview, the benefits of Alpha Brain include:

  • Improved cognitive function
  • Enhanced memory recall
  • Increased focus and concentration
  • Increased alpha brain waves (help you relax)
  • Improved mental clarity, focus, and creativity.

The fact that Alpha Brain contains all-natural ingredients is another benefit making it safe to use without negative side effects or the risk of addiction!

Alpha Brain - Reviews & Experiences Reported On Reddit

Doing some research on any nootropic is always a good idea, and Reddit is one of the best places to start.

I took a quick look through some of the most popular Alpha Brain threads on Reddit and compiled some of the main points that were made.

One user said:

"Alpha Brain has helped me in so many ways that I can't even list them all. I've been taking it for about 6 months now and I have seen a significant improvement in my memory, focus, and concentration."

Another user said:

"I was a little hesitant to try Alpha Brain at first because I wasn't sure if it would work or not. But I'm glad I did because it has helped me so much! I've been taking it for about 2 months now and I have definitely noticed an improvement in my cognitive function."

And finally, this user said:

"I would definitely recommend Alpha Brain to anyone looking for a way to improve their cognitive function. It's amazing!!"

As you can see, the vast majority of users reported positive experiences with Alpha Brain.

There were a few users who didn't notice any effects, but this is to be expected with any supplement - not everyone will react in the same way!

The only long-term experiment on Reddit I could find is by a guy called u/Neuropharma, you can read his review of Alpha Brain here.

I also found some reviews about Alpha Brain on Trustpilot:

alpha brain review feedback

If you're curious to know more about my own experience with Alpha Brain, then check it out down below.

My Personal Alpha Brain Experience & Results

I initially ordered Alpha Brain after seeing so many positive reviews online.

I had been looking for a way to improve my cognitive function and memory recall for a while, and Alpha Brain seemed like the perfect solution!

I'm also a HUGE Joe Rogan fan, so that also played a part in my decision!

I started out taking 2 capsules of Alpha Brain a day.

I didn't really notice any effects for the first few days, but after a week or so I started to notice a difference in my memory recall.

I could remember things a lot more easily and my focus and concentration were definitely improved.

I also noticed that I was WAAY more relaxed than usual which makes sense because it increases alpha brain waves!

I know some people can feel the effects right away, but for me, it took a little while.

I would definitely recommend starting with 2 capsules a day and then increasing the dosage if you don't feel any effects.

Some people have reported feeling jittery or anxious after taking Alpha Brain, but I didn't experience any of these side effects.

I think it's important to note that everyone reacts differently to nootropics!

So, my personal experience with Alpha Brain was extremely positive.

It definitely improved my memory recall, focus, and concentration - and I didn't experience any negative side effects.

If you're looking for a safe and effective way to improve your cognitive function, then I would highly recommend trying Alpha Brain!

How Does Alpha Brain Feel Like?

When taking Alpha Brain, some people report feeling more alert and clearheaded within an hour or so.

For others, it may take a few days of consistent use to notice any effects.

Additionally, many people who take Alpha Brain say they feel more motivated and productive.

Some also report feeling calmer and less anxious.

While everyone experiences Alpha Brain differently, most people who take it consistently report feeling better mentally and cognitively.

Personally, I can attest to the fact that Alpha Brain definitely improved my memory recall and focus.

I also felt more relaxed - but not in a sedative way.

It was more of a calm and clearheaded feeling.

If you're looking for a nootropic that will help you feel more mentally sharp and productive, then Alpha Brain is definitely

Where to Buy Alpha Brain Online?

Alpha Brain is available for purchase on the Onnit.com website and also from several online retailers, like Amazon.

The supplement comes in both capsule and powder form (called Alpha Brain Instant), and the recommended dosage is 2 capsules per day (or 2 oz daily).

You can also find out if there are any discounts for this product by looking at the list of authorized Alpha Brain stores and other relevant information from their official website.

Price: How Much Does Alpha Brain Cost?

Alpha Brain comes in 2 different sizes - a 30 capsule bottle and a 90 capsule bottle.

The suggested retail price for the 30 capsule bottle is $34.95 and the suggested retail price for the 90 capsule bottle is $79.95.

However, you can often find discounts for Alpha Brain on their website or from other retailers.

For example, right now Onnit.com is offering a 15% discount when you purchase any 2 products from their site as well as FREE shipping on orders over $150.

So, if you decide to buy Alpha Brain, I would recommend taking advantage of this discount and purchasing the 90 capsule bottle.

This way, you'll have enough for a full month's worth of use and you'll also save money in the long run.

Don't hesitate to contact Onnit customer service with any queries regarding the product or your order:

What Are the Alpha Brain Side Effects?

When it comes to nootropics, there are always going to be some side effects.

But with Alpha Brain, the side effects are pretty mild and nothing to worry about.

The most common Alpha Brain side effects are:

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Lucid dreams
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia

It's worth pointing out that these side effects usually only occur when people take higher doses of Alpha Brain.

So, if you start with the recommended dose of 2 capsules per day and don't notice any side effects, then you're probably in the clear.

But if you do experience any of these side effects, I would recommend reducing your dosage or discontinuing use altogether.

How to Take Alpha Brain?

There are a few things to keep in mind when taking Alpha Brain.

For optimal results, it is recommended to take two capsules in the morning or early afternoon, with or without food.

Some people prefer to split their doses, taking one capsule in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Alpha Brain is also available in powder form (instant mix), which can be mixed with water or your favorite beverage.

If you have a sensitive stomach, it is best to take Alpha Brain on an empty stomach.

No matter how you take it, Alpha Brain is designed to support cognitive function and help you reach your full potential, so you can stay sharp and focused all day long.

What Is The Recommended Alpha Brain Dosage?

AmountDosage
1 CapsuleLow
2 CapsulesRecommended
4 CapsulesHigh

As briefly mentioned above, the recommended dosage of Alpha Brain is 2 capsules per day.

If you want to split your doses, you can take 1 capsule in the morning and 1 in the afternoon.

Or, if you prefer, you can take both capsules at once in the morning.

It's really up to you and what works best for your schedule.

Just make sure not to exceed the recommended dose of 2 capsules per day.

What Is Alpha Brains' Half-Life?

Based on the half-lives of its individual ingredients, it is estimated that Alpha Brain will remain in the body for between 2 and 4 hours.

This means that you can expect to experience the benefits of Alpha Brain for several hours after taking it.

Does Alpha Brain Create Tolerance?

When it comes to developing a tolerance for nootropics, it really depends on the individual.

Some people can take them for long periods of time without any issues, while others may develop tolerance more quickly.

With that said, some users have reported that they experience lessened effects from the supplement over time.

This has led to the question of whether Alpha Brain creates tolerance.

While it is possible that tolerance may develop in some individuals, there is no evidence to suggest that this is a common occurrence.

In fact, the vast majority of users report continued benefits from Alpha Brain with daily use.

It is important to note that Alpha Brain is not a traditional stimulant, and therefore it is unlikely that tolerance would develop in the same way as it does with other substances such as caffeine.

Major Drug Interactions: What Does Alpha Brain Interact With?

As with any supplement, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions before taking Alpha Brain.

The most common active ingredient in Alpha Brain is alpha GPC, which is known to interact with medications that affect blood clotting.

As a result, people taking blood thinners or other anti-clotting medications should avoid taking Alpha Brain.

In addition, Alpha Brain may also interact with certain psychiatric medications.

Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Alpha Brain if you are taking any type of medication.

What Are The Best Alpha Brain Stacks?

An Alpha Brain stack simply means taking Alpha Brain with other nootropics or supplements in order to enhance its effects.

One popular Alpha Brain stack is to combine it with Piracetam, an incredibly powerful nootropic that is known for its ability to improve cognitive function.

Any Racetams can be added to an Alpha Brain stack as they all share similar mechanisms of action.

That being said, Alpha Brain already contains a significant amount of ingredients, so it is important to be cautious when adding anything else to the mix.

Most people don't need to add anything to their Alpha Brain, but if you are looking for an extra edge, then Piracetam is a good option.

What Are The Best Alpha Brain Alternatives?

When it comes to the best Alpha Brain alternative, it really depends on what you are looking for.

Let's take a closer look at the best alternatives down below.

Alpha Brain vs. NooCube

If you want a supplement that is similar to Alpha Brain in terms of its effects, then NooCube is a good option.

NooCube is another all-natural nootropic that is designed to enhance cognitive function and support mental performance.

It contains many of the same ingredients as Alpha Brain, including alpha GPC, L-theanine, and Huperzine A.

Alpha Brain vs. Mind Lab Pro

Another good option is Mind Lab Pro.

Mind Lab Pro is a little different from Alpha Brain in that it contains more vitamins and minerals than Alpha Brain does.

This makes it a good option for people who are looking for a more well-rounded supplement.

It is also worth noting that Mind Lab Pro is vegan-friendly, whereas Alpha Brain is not.

Alpha Brain vs. OptiMind

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to Alpha Brain, then OptiMind is a good option.

While it is not as comprehensive as Alpha Brain, it does contain many of the same ingredients, including alpha GPC, L-theanine, and Huperzine A.

It is also much cheaper than Alpha Brain, making it a good option for people who are on a budget.

Alpha Brain vs. Brain Pill

Brain Pill is a smart drug that will give you enhanced energy, focus, and productivity.

This nootropic can be beneficial for people who want to have an edge in high-stress situations or those looking at their learning abilities closely because of fatigue issues.

It's also popular among athletes wanting greater cognitive reserve during competitive times.

Brain Pill is the ultimate way to improve your brainpower and get more done in a day.

With 13 nootropic ingredients, it's clear that this supplement does not just offer mental benefits - but physical ones as well!

Some of these are Vitamin B12, Phosphatidylserine and Ginkgo Biloba!

Alpha Brain vs. Modafinil

Even though Modafinil is not a blend of natural ingredients like the ones we've talked about above, it definitely deserves a spot on this list.

This is because Modafinil is one of the most powerful nootropics on the market and has been shown to be incredibly effective at enhancing cognitive function.

In fact, Modafinil is so powerful that it is sometimes referred to as the "limitless pill".

While it is not exactly like the pill from the movie, it can still provide some pretty amazing benefits.

If you are looking for a powerful nootropic that can really take your cognitive function to the next level, then Modafinil is a good option.

Alpha Brain vs. Adrafinil

Adrafinil is a synthetic nootropic that is similar to Modafinil.

It is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function and provide an energy boost.

Adrafinil is a good option for people who want the benefits of Modafinil without the potential side effects.

Scientific Alpha Brain Research

I'm sure you are wondering if there is any scientific research to support the claims made about Alpha Brain.

The good news is that there is!

In fact, there has been one 1 major study conducted on Alpha Brain.

Let's take a closer look at it down below...

Human Studies

In a group of healthy adults, one study tested the effectiveness of this self-described cognitive enhancing nootropic on cognitive performance using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design.

Here's what the study concluded:

"The use of Alpha BRAINĀ® for 6 weeks significantly improved recent verbal memory when compared with controls, in a group of healthy adults. While the outcome of the study is encouraging, this is the first randomized controlled trial of Alpha BRAINĀ®, and the results merit further study."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Long Does It Take For Alpha Brain to Kick In?

Onnit Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement that improves memory, focus, motivation, and attention. According to most people, it takes 1-2 hours to work, and 3 hours to achieve peak effects.

How Long Does Alpha Brain Last?

If you use a normal dose of Alpha Brain (2 capsules), the effects will last for around 2-4 hours. If you take a higher dose of 4 capsules, the effects will last for around 4-6 hours.

What Does Alpha Brain Taste Like?

The original Alpha Brain is tasteless since it comes in capsules. However, with the new and improved Alpha Brain Instant, you can choose between these flavors: Ruby Grapefruit, Meyer Lemon, Coconut Lime, Pineapple Punch, Peach, Blackberry Lemonade and Alpha BrainĀ® Instant Variety.

Is Alpha Brain Legal?

Alpha Brain is 100% legal since it only contains natural ingredients that have been clinically studied and shown to be safe. Here's what Aubrey Marcus (The owner) has said on the website: ā€œWe can say unequivocally thatĀ there are no amphetamines or other banned substances in Alpha BRAINĀ®. We electively test every batch of Alpha BRAINĀ® at our own expense to ensure that our products are free of any banned or illegal substances."

Is Alpha Brain FDA-Approved?

Similar to most supplements out on the market, Alpha Brain is not FDA approved. However, this doesn't mean that it's not safe. In fact, all of the ingredients in Alpha Brain have been clinically studied and shown to be safe.

Does Alpha Brain Affect Serotonin?

Alpha Brain contains L-theanine, which has been shown to increase levels of serotonin in the brain. This is one of the reasons why Alpha Brain can help improve mood, relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Does Alpha Brain Help With ADD?

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Alpha Brain can help with ADD. However, some people report that it has helped them focus and concentrate better. This makes sense since Alpha Brain contains ingredients that have been shown to improve cognitive function.

Does Joe Rogan Take Alpha Brain?

According to Joe Rogan, he has been using Alpha BRAIN consistently since 2011, including it before every podcast, during UFC fights commentating, and while performing stand-up sets.

What's The Difference Between Alpha Brain And Adderall?

Alpha Brain is not a stimulant like Adderall. It is a nootropic supplement that contains all-natural ingredients that have been clinically studied and shown to be safe. Adderall, on the other hand, is a powerful amphetamine that can be addictive and has many potential side effects.

What's The Difference Between Alpha Brain And Alpha Brain INSTANT?

Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement that comes in capsules, while Alpha Brain Instant is a flavored and powdered form of the supplement that you can mix with water. Both products contain the same ingredients and have the same effects.

Final Thoughts: Is Alpha Brain Worth It?

In my personal opinion, Alpha Brain is definitely worth trying out. It's a nootropic supplement that contains all-natural ingredients that have been clinically studied and shown to be safe.

If you're looking for a natural way to improve your memory, focus, motivation, and attention, then I would recommend giving Alpha Brain a try.

I would also recommend trying out the new and improved Alpha Brain Instant. It comes in 7 delicious flavors and is a great way to get your daily dose of nootropics.

Whether you're looking for an edge in your professional or academic life, or you just want to improve your cognitive function, I think Alpha Brain is definitely worth trying out.

So there you have it, my complete review of Alpha Brain.

I hope you found this helpful and if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me and I'll be happy to answer them.

Cheers!